Choose the right variety of Lycium barbarum and prepare planting containers and soil. Steps to plant Lycium barbarum bonsai and maintenance.
Lycium barbarum, as a traditional Chinese tonic medicine, is highly regarded for its medicinal and ornamental values. Nowadays, more and more people are trying to grow Lycium barbarum into small bonsai, which not only adds greenery to the home but also admires its unique shape. This article will introduce in detail how to grow Lycium barbarum into a small bonsai, allowing you to easily create a beautiful Lycium barbarum bonsai at home.
Choose the right variety of Lycium barbarum.
Before planting Lycium barbarum bonsai, it is first necessary to choose the right variety. The commonly seen varieties of Lycium barbarum on the market include Ningxia Lycium barbarum and Zhongning Lycium barbarum. Ningxia Lycium barbarum is known for its plump fruits, bright color, and sweet taste. When choosing a variety, it is recommended to select a variety with vigorous growth and strong disease resistance.
Prepare planting containers and soil.
The planting container for Lycium barbarum bonsai can be made of materials such as ceramics or purple sand, and the size should be determined based on the size of the Lycium barbarum plant and its growth habits. For soil, a growing soil mixed with peat soil, decomposed leaf soil, and pearl rock with good breathability and drainage is suitable.
Steps to plant Lycium barbarum bonsai.
1. Watering: Before planting, soak the Lycium barbarum plant in water to allow the roots to absorb water fully, then remove the Lycium barbarum plant from the pot and gently shake off excess soil.
2. Planting: Place the Lycium barbarum plant in the prepared container, taking care to maintain the plant's inclination angle to showcase an elegant shape.
3. Fill soil: Use the growing soil to secure the Lycium barbarum plant in the container, fill the soil to the base of the plant's stem, and gently compact the soil.
4. Watering: After planting, immediately water thoroughly to moisten the soil fully.
Maintenance management.
1. Watering: Lycium barbarum bonsai prefers a moist environment but dislikes waterlogging. During the growing period, keep the soil moist, increase watering frequency during the hot summer, and reduce it appropriately in winter.
2. Fertilizing: During the growth period of Lycium barbarum, apply a compound fertilizer every 20 days or so to promote plant growth.
3. Pruning: Pruning of Lycium barbarum bonsai can be done according to personal preferences. When pruning, pay attention to maintaining the plant's layering and shape.
4. Pest and disease control: Lycium barbarum bonsai is prone to pest and disease attacks. It is necessary to observe the plant's growth condition timely, and take measures promptly when pests and diseases are found.
The planting and maintenance of Lycium barbarum bonsai are not complicated. By mastering some basic skills, you can easily create a beautiful Lycium barbarum bonsai at home. With careful nurturing, Lycium barbarum bonsai can not only beautify the home environment but also bring health and joy to our lives.
References:
“Techniques for Making and Maintaining Lycium barbarum Bonsai,” published by China Forestry Publishing House in 2018.
“Planting and Maintenance of Lycium barbarum Bonsai,” published by China Agricultural Publishing House in 2017.